Bicycling is a great way to get exercise, save money, and help the environment. Unfortunately, it’s not always a safe activity. In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there are an estimated 1 million bicycle accidents in the U.S. every year.
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Fortunately, if you’re involved in a bike accident in California, you may be able to make a claim for damages. Here are some things to keep in mind if you find yourself in this situation.
What is a bike accident lawyer?
A bike accident lawyer is a legal professional who specializes in representing individuals who have been injured in bike accidents. The lawyer can help the injured party navigate the legal system and obtain compensation for their losses, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
The lawyer can also help in the following ways:
- Investigate the accident: A bike accident lawyer will conduct an investigation to determine the cause of the accident and who was at fault.
- Determine liability: The lawyer will assess the evidence and determine who was responsible for the accident, such as a driver, property owner, or government entity.
- Negotiate with insurance companies: The lawyer will negotiate with the insurance companies involved to obtain a fair settlement for the injured party.
- Represent the client in court: If a settlement cannot be reached, the lawyer will represent the injured party in court and argue their case.
A bike accident lawyer can provide valuable assistance to individuals who have been injured in a bike accident, helping them to obtain the compensation they deserve and hold the responsible parties accountable.
How to choose the right Bike accident lawyer California
Choosing the right bike accident lawyer in California can be a challenge, but there are several key factors to consider when making your selection:
- Experience: Look for a lawyer who has significant experience handling bike accident cases and a track record of success.
- Specialization: Consider a lawyer who specializes in bike accident cases and has a deep understanding of the relevant laws and regulations.
- Reputation: Look for a lawyer with a good reputation in the legal community and positive reviews from previous clients.
- Communication skills: Choose a lawyer who is a strong communicator and who will keep you informed about the progress of your case.
- Availability: Ensure that the lawyer you choose is available to answer your questions and provide support when you need it.
- Fees: Consider the fees charged by the lawyer and make sure they are reasonable and transparent.
- Proximity: Consider a lawyer who is located near your home or work, to make it easier to communicate and schedule appointments.
It is also helpful to schedule a consultation with several potential lawyers to determine which one is the right fit for your needs. Be prepared to ask questions about their experience, approach to cases, and any other concerns you may have.
Types of bike accidents
Bike accidents can occur in a variety of ways, and can result in different types of injuries and damages. Some common types of bike accidents include:
- Collisions with cars: This is the most common type of bike accident and occurs when a car hits a bike, either because the driver was not paying attention or because the bike was in the car’s blind spot.
- Dooring accidents: This occurs when a driver opens their car door into the path of a cyclist, causing them to collide with the door.
- Left-turn accidents: This type of accident occurs when a car makes a left turn in front of a bike, either cutting them off or hitting them.
- Right-turn accidents: This type of accident occurs when a car turns right and hits a bike that is riding straight through an intersection.
- Lane-change accidents: This type of accident occurs when a car changes lanes and collides with a bike.
- Bike lane accidents: This type of accident occurs when a car or other vehicle enters a bike lane and collides with a cyclist.
- Hit-and-run accidents: This type of accident occurs when a driver hits a cyclist and then leaves the scene without stopping.
- Road hazards: This type of accident occurs when a cyclist hits an obstacle in the road, such as a pothole, debris, or a slippery surface.
Each type of bike accident can result in different types of injuries, ranging from minor scrapes and bruises to serious head injuries, broken bones, and spinal cord injuries.
Causes of bike accidents
There are many factors that can contribute to bike accidents, including:
- Reckless or distracted driving: This includes drivers who are texting, using their phone, or engaging in other distractions while driving.
- Improper lane usage: This can occur when drivers or cyclists do not use the proper lane or do not signal when changing lanes.
- Failure to yield: This can occur when drivers do not give the right of way to cyclists when required, such as at intersections or when making turns.
- Poor road conditions: This includes potholes, debris, and slippery surfaces that can cause a cyclist to lose control of their bike.
- Poor bike maintenance: This includes issues with the bike’s brakes, tires, or other parts that can cause a crash.
- Lack of proper safety equipment: This includes not wearing a helmet or not having proper lights on the bike.
- Intoxication: This can include drunk driving or drunk cycling, which can impair a person’s ability to operate their vehicle safely.
- Weather conditions: This can include rain, snow, or high winds that can make cycling more dangerous.
- Poorly designed or maintained bike lanes: This can include bike lanes that are too narrow or do not have proper signage or separation from traffic.
It is important to understand the potential causes of bike accidents so that riders can take steps to reduce their risk of being involved in a crash. This can include wearing proper safety gear, using the right lane, following the rules of the road, and ensuring that their bike is in good working order.
What to do after a bike accident
If you have been in a bike accident, immediately call your insurance company and report the crash. You may also be entitled to receive benefits from your policy, such as medical expenses and lost wages. If you are injured in the crash, seek medical attention as soon as possible. If you were driving at the time of the crash, stop and attend to any injuries you may have. If you are not driving, stay out of the way and let law enforcement handle the situation.
Who should you contact after a bike accident?
If you have been in a bike accident, it is important to contact a lawyer as soon as possible. In California, personal injury lawyers are required by statute to offer free legal consultations to those who have been injured in a bike accident. The law firm of Mark S. Geragos & Associates has represented many victims of bike accidents and can help you get the compensation you deserve.
Some other points to keep in mind after a bike accident include:
- Make sure you have all of the information about the crash, including the drivers’ names and license plate numbers if available;
- Take photos and video footage of the crash scene;
- Document any injuries you may have sustained; and
- Contact your insurance company as soon as possible.
- If you have any other questions or concerns about bike accidents, please contact a lawyer.
Conclusion
If you or someone you know has been injured in a bike accident, it is important to have an experienced attorney on your side. An injury lawyer can help protect your rights and get the compensation you deserve. Make sure to find an attorney who specializes in bicycle accidents, as this type of accident often results in serious injuries.
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